Japanese Americans by: Caitlin Bader, Sean Garmston, Stephanie Arrol, Cassie Barragan, Alex DeStafeno, and Matt Kosonen

Introduction When the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, the discrimination against Japanese Americans began. Over 150,000 Japanese Americans were living in the Hawaiian Islands at the time. Although all of the island inhabitants were allowed to stay, on the mainland, they were seen as “potential collaborators” who worked with the enemy to undermine national security. All “enemy aliens” were forced to register with the government and had to carry specific identification papers with them at all times.

Key Terms Executive Order 9066: order declared that large military zones set up to exclude current residents who were believed to be a threat to security. Korematsu v. United States: Supreme Court case concerning the constitutionality of Executive Order 9066, which ordered Japanese Americans into internment camps. Internment Camps: a prison camp for the confinement of enemy aliens, prisoners of war, political prisoners, etc.

Hardships- Internment Camps Over 100,000 were forced to evacuate their homes and leave their families for internment camps. Scattered throughout Western states. Camps consisted of rows of wooden barracks, creating a harsh environment for the Japanese--these camps were equivalent to concentration camps. Japanese Americans faced racism from whites. No trees or any form of green. Summers were unbearably hot and winters were freezing and desolate. Food portions were small, food starchy, and dull.

Hardships- The Beginning February 19,1942 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066; authorizing certain areas to be designated for internment camps. Of the total Pacific Coast Japanese, 40,869 were “resident aliens”--or “enemy aliens”-- because U.S. was at war with Japan. Neighbors turned on neighbors-- rendering suburban america a tumultuous land. Troops were sent in to round up Japanese Americans and send them to the camps.

Opportunities The Japanese Americans weren’t faced with many opportunities, but because of this, they were able to create their own community within the internment camps. These communities allowed the Japanese to establish school, create art, sing , and bring those together. The major opportunity the Japanese had what to serve during WWII. They were known as the 442 Regimental Combat Team. Although their families were imprisoned, they still fought. over 14,000 men fought, 21 of them were awarded Medals of Honor. "They demonstrated conclusively the loyalty and valor of our American citizens of Japanese ancestry in combat." General Mark W. Clark-- American general during World War II and the Korean War.

The End!